Oratory Crucifix, Polychrome Wooden Figure Of Christ On A Porcelain Base Featuring A Memento Mori—19th Century

A devotional crucifix consisting of a carved, polychrome, and gilded wooden figure of Christ mounted on a blackened wooden cross. The inscription “INRI” is made of white porcelain with gold lettering.The stepped base is made of glazed white porcelain. It is decorated with gadroons and foliage and topped with a skull resting on crossed shinbones, a symbol of Golgotha and a memento mori. This rare feature gives the piece the character of a cabinet of curiosities.The Christ figure, in the Jansenist style, has his arms raised high and his head bowed. The face, hair, and beard are finely modeled. The perizonium, tied at the side and held in place by a cord, is accented with gilding. The skin tone has a patina, with streaks of painted blood. Period: 19th century. Dimensions: total height 54 cm, Christ 25 cm. Condition: wear and minor losses in the polychromy and gilding, consistent with its age.